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Overview
Spotting is common at first.
Estrogen raises blood clot risk.
When to get medical care
Call 911Chest pain, shortness of breath, leg swelling, severe headache, or vision loss.
Get care todaySevere headache with vision changes.
See a doctor soonSide effects lasting over 3 months.
Causes
Caused by hormones.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause side effects from birth control. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Birth control side effectsSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
Spotting, nausea, headaches, mood changes, or other changes after starting or switching birth control.
What you can do at home
- Take pills at the same time daily.
Medicines
Your provider can switch methods.
At the doctor
The provider will review.
Questions you may be asked
- Method
- Symptoms
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Blood pressure
Prevention
Choose what fits.
- Discuss options
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.